My thoughts on life in general. As an interior designer by trade and training, I love all aspects of designing, inside and out, and making our lives more comfortable, less stressful, and more fulfilling.
I will do articles on space planning, gardening, and just living a more fulfilling lifestyle. I feel we sometimes make things more complicated than they need to be. I look forward to all of your feedback.

Monday, January 17, 2011

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Brights are going to be seen everywhere and on everything. These colors add such energy to your home & your clothing, as you can see in these pictures.

I have started to receive my spring merchandise for Nygard, and it is all about color. It is refreshing after the gloomy weather we have been having.

Are you afraid of color? Just use it for an accent as in jewelry, or shoes. In your home a sunny room can easily handle strong, bright colors and it will be toned down with neutral furnishings.

Here are some ways to try to add more color to your home or wardrobe.

A bright pastel tee under a jacket, which will add new life to a basic wardrobe.

The jewelry styles for spring have lots of bracelets with beads of brights.

Have an accent wall, usually the first wall you see entering the space painted in a bold color. Don't panic as you are painting. You will need at least 2 coats of paint, (a tinted primer will help) When you hang artwork, and put furnishings in front of it, I'm sure it will change the entire feel of the room.

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

How often do we get "free" days where all of our plans our cancelled, and we are at home to do....what?

It has been snowing here, and then we have about an inch of freezing ice on top of that. The mall, government, and streets are all quiet. So here I am, relishing that I actually have unplanned time.

My husband is also home, which is a real treat. To be able to just relax and enjoy each others company without any interruptions and things on our 'to do' list.
All of that can wait. maybe we'll play cards, or watch an old movie!

The entire country seems to be having bad weather right now. I hope you will take the time to enjoy it, as I just saw the neighbor children doing. They were going down the middle to the street on their sled, laughing all the way. Why not, the cars can't use the street!

Earlier this morning we watched 6 deer go through the yard, it was the entire family. Two grown and 4 young. It was peaceful to see them, and not have to rush off to take a shower and 'get ready to go' as I usually do at that time.

I'm hoping you will have some wonderful moments today, and enjoy your free .....Donna

Tuesday, January 4, 2011

As I sit here thinking about a new year, and a new decade, I am thinking aboiut all of the different phases of my life.

A new graduate of design school, all excited about embarking on my new career.
Rull of ideas and enthusiasm.

A new wife, balancing career and home, trying to be Martha Stewart and doing everything perfectly.

A new mother balancing yet more balls in the air.
Then in 1990, I started my own design firm. I soon realized that I could no longer do everything on my own.

I learned to delegate, ask for assistance when needed, and mastered the fine art of saying, "Thank you for thinking of me, but I cannot do it at this time. Please remember to ask me in the future" In other words, I graciously learned how to say NO. This first time is scary, but it does become easier and very rewarding to your health.

Time is such a precious commodity. We never have enough, wonder where it went, and can never get it back.

I have learned a few tricks to save myself time, and here are some suggestions:

Cook once a week, and plan your future meals around it. We had a scrumptious roast with mushroom glaze and garlic mashed potatoes for dinner tonight. The left-overs will be used for sandwiches, soup, and yummy potato pancakes.

When you pick up the mail, go through it immediately. Throw the junk out, and put the rest in a basket to look over once a week. That way you won't wonder if you paid that bill, or where did you put that marvelous invitation?

Everyday schedule time for yourself. Even if it is only 15 minutes. In 15 minutes you can read a chapter of a book, go for a walk with the dog and listen to the birds, take a bath, listen to a new cd, or just sit and watch the sunrise. It will become a time you look forward to and you deserve it!

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About Me

Passionate about anything I take on. Am at a place in my life that I have the freedom to discover my likes & dislikes. Enjoy gardening, architecture, hiking and nature, photography and spending time with friends

Garden in the sunshine,run through the rain, pet the dog, and kiss your sweetheart every day...Be kind to mean people, they can't possibly be very happyUse color and laughter to fill your world with wonder, because if you stop and look, it is all around you.